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Can she follow her dreams when she has lost everything? Young Bridie O'Hara is torn away from her native Ireland by her father - a freedom fighter turned traitor - when he has to flee the wrath of the republicans. Violated by those who should protect her and betrayed by her dashing gypsy lover, Seamus Finney, she struggles to find her way in Victorian England.

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Clara held on to the precious button, glimmering like a jewel in the dark alleyways of London's notorious Seven Dials. She needed to save her family...but who was going to save her? There was a time when the Carter sisters' father was their hero. Now he's a drunk who's gambled away everything they had and put them all in peril. It's on Clara's shoulders to save the four sisters from destitution. Clutching her precious button box, the only thing of value they have left, Clara dreams of starting a shop that could put a roof over their heads and keep them safe....

5 out of 5 stars

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Summary

Three sisters in 1920s struggle to make ends meet and protect their mother from their violent father. Milly works in Southwells jam factory. Elsie dreams of a career on the stage, while little Amy runs wild with her friends.

All three of the girls fear the unforgiving temper of their father and their courageous attempts to protect their defenseless mother will have dramatic, disastrous consequences for them all.

jam and roses

This was the first book by Mary Gibson I've had and OMG it was amazing from start to finish breath taking in parts loved it can't wait to start a new one. I would highly recommend this book to. Anyone.

Engaging story of the depression era in Bermondsey

Anne Dover yet again displays her acting skill bringing to life the characters of Bermondsey in the interlude between the wars.A story of 3 sisters struggling to free themselves from an alcoholic abusive father and a put upon mother. You really end up caring about the protagonists. Very enjoyable.

Familiar old friend

Anne Dovers voice gives warmth and realality to the characters and for me was like listening to a familiar old friend. The story its self was close to my heart as I know the area of London in which the story was set so could easily see the setting and the characters.

thoroughly enjoyed this book.

JUST AS ENGAGING AT SECOND OR THIRD LISTENING

I come back to this every year to revisit the family in the London slums. The reader holds our attention and has us holding our breath through serious trouble many times. There is joy and humour and strength. You feel privileged to live in modern Britain, but realise we have lost the close community of a tougher but closer knit era. As we leave the family, the slums are being transformed by tree and flower planting, dignity has been clung to and we say goodbye to the story with optimism.